Saturday, January 25, 2020

Metal Tooling Easy & Safe Enough For FIRSTIES!

Metal tooling is usually one of those projects saved for your older students, right? I mean, sharp edges, scary tools, what was I thinking giving it to littles? Well, I figured out a way to make it super easy and super safe for any age student to be successful and have fun with metal tooling, just in time for Valentine's Day!

Start with 36 gauge metal foil. I buy mine in rolls from Dick Blick, but it's available on Amazon, too. Pre-cut your foil with regular scissors, or even your guillotine cutter, into 4" x 6" or 5" x 7" pieces, whichever you prefer, and use a metal ruler to fold back just one edge 1/4 inch.
Prepare enough of these for your whole class. Next, cut craft foam just a bit larger (5" x 7" or 6" x 8"), one per student. If you have foam shape stickers, you're golden! I didn't, so I let my kiddos choose from plain foam shapes and use glue sticks to glue them in place on the craft foam sheets to create their designs.
Next, we used masking tape to secure the metal foil to the craft foam, centered over the design. Notice, we taped only the three sharp sides of the foil. Using metal spoons, we began to gently rub over the foil to "find" our designs. After rubbing with the back of the spoon side, we used the back of the handle side of the spoon to define the design. Although this pretty well defined the designs, I went ahead and introduced plastic paper folding tools to further get into the spaces between the foam pieces. Finally, I removed the foil for each student and folded the tape back over those sharp metal edges. We flipped over the craft foam to the "blank" side, just to have a soft surface, and flipped over our foil to talk about chasing, as a part of the tooling process. The kids caught on right away, using the spoon handles first, then going back to the paper folders for details.


Finally, I folded those last three sharp edges to the back, and we called it good. With older students, you can take these further in a couple of different ways...definitely, you can go the easy route and color the foil with Sharpies. I've found that the super fat ones work best. They don't seem to leave those scratchy-looking marks, as your students go over large areas (actually scratching the color off from the first time the marker touches the foil). Even more interestingly, you can use melted crayons (I keep mini loaf pans of melted and cooled crayons ready for my electric frying pans) and old paint brushes, devoted solely to the wax, to fill in depressed areas with color. Once the wax is cool, it stays in place and looks really neat! If you're interested in more with hot wax, stay tuned for my hot wax paintings and print-making lesson. It's a true favorite!

As a bonus for the little kiddos, we can now use our craft foam to do monoprints!

XOXO,
Brooke

25 comments:

  1. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  2. very good post, i surely enjoy this web site, persist with it visit

    ReplyDelete
  3. I wanted to thank you for this excellent read!! I definitely loved every little bit of it. I have you bookmarked your site to check out the new stuff you post. DXTECH

    ReplyDelete
  4. To begin a laser etching business, you need the accompanyingHispeedLaser

    ReplyDelete
  5. I am unable to read articles online very often, but I’m glad I did today. This is very well written and your points are well-expressed. Please, don’t ever stop writing. Cushion Diamond suppliers

    ReplyDelete
  6. Looking fetish sites ? Then we are the best for you, who suit your expectations. We have huge experience on this field. We are 100% dedicated to find you fetish sites.
    You can find fetish sites here and here are numberius clients buy our products
    If you want to know more, Please check out here - fetishsites.net

    ReplyDelete
  7. Looking for Kamagra gel? Then we are the best for you, who suit your expectations. We have huge experience on this field. We are 100% dedicated to find you cheap pKamagra gel.
    Kamagra Gel is the most convenient and effective solution for improving and strengthening sexual function in men. You can buy Kamagra gel here and here are numberius clients buy our products. We are provide only high quality Kamagra gel for you with always customers support.


    If you want to know more, Please check out here - kamagra isra

    ReplyDelete
  8. A weak magnet can sometimes fool you, because you are strong, and the magnet is weak, you can touch it quickly and pull it away quickly, and think that you have a piece of non-ferrous metal when in fact the metal you just found is actually ferrous metal. Hobart Stickmate 160i

    ReplyDelete
  9. We'll initially examine ferrous metal. Ferrous metal is generally utilized for things like hardware, vehicles, engines, ranch carries out, and different uses like machines, similar to ovens coolers, washers, Lotos LTP7000

    ReplyDelete
  10. Great thanks for sharing this article. Keep writing.
    locksmith oak park

    ReplyDelete
  11. Nice to be visiting your blog again, it has been months for me. Well this article that i've been waited for so long. I need this article to complete my assignment in the college, and it has same topic with your article. Thanks, great share. safe deposit box singapore

    ReplyDelete
  12. I high appreciate this post. It’s hard to find the good from the bad sometimes, but I think you’ve nailed it! would you mind updating your blog with more information? safe deposit box

    ReplyDelete
  13. Thanks for a very interesting blog. What else may I get that kind of info written in such a perfect approach? I’ve a undertaking that I am simply now operating on, and I have been at the look out for such info. best singapore safe deposit box

    ReplyDelete
  14. Hmm!! This blog is really cool, I’m so lucky that I have reached here and got this awesome information. how to bend aluminum

    ReplyDelete
  15. Why Alkemy Metal LLC? Deliverability, quality, and superior service are the hallmarks of any great company pipe welder

    ReplyDelete
  16. Thanks for sharing this is a fantastic article. Really looking forward to read more. Really Great. safe box price

    ReplyDelete
  17. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  18. "I value checks unlimited coupon codes reasonable price and regular reductions since I prefer paper checks over internet payments. It's a practical way to obtain personalised inspections of excellent quality at a reasonable price.

    ReplyDelete
  19. Wearing the Butterfly buckle Cuban chain is a statement of one's taste and originality. It conveys a strong message about the wearer's respect of artistic talent, stylishness, and the potential significance of jewelry. The chain evolves from a simple piece of jewelry into a celebration of beauty and change, a representation of one's ideals, and more.

    ReplyDelete
  20. In the vast landscape of natural wellness, few substances rival the reputation and acclaim of Shilajit. Known as the "Destroyer of Weakness" and the "Conqueror of Mountains," Shilajit has been revered for centuries in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. Among the myriad forms of Shilajit, the Pure Vitality: 20g Gold Natural Wellness Shilajit Resin stands out as a beacon of potency and authenticity. Let us embark on a journey to unveil the mysteries and potential advantages of this esteemed resin.

    ReplyDelete
  21. The Kerala State Lotteries Directorate releases 07 unique lotteries every week. The Kerala State Directorate also releases another lottery called Bhagyamithra, which is only available on the first Sunday of each month. The Kerala Lottery provides financial support to many people. The Kerala lottery is inexpensive.For
    More info

    ReplyDelete
  22. WebsiteBabe Herder' is an intriguing term that combines colloquialism and a whimsical twist. The word 'babe' conveys informality and possibly affection, whereas 'herder' conveys organization or guidance. This intriguing combination piques one's interest and lends itself to a variety of interpretations. A 'Babe Herder' could be imagined as someone who has a talent for orchestrating a group of attractive people in a social setting, navigating the dynamics with charm and finesse. Because of the term's adaptability, it can be used in a variety of creative and playful contexts, making it a captivating expression that adds a sense of levity to conversations. 'Babe Herder' is a linguistic gem that captures attention and ignites the imagination, making it a memorable and engaging phrase.
    With its blend of familiarity and whimsy, the term 'Babe Herder' continues to captivate. The combination of the colloquial term 'babe' and the imagery of a 'herder' creates a playful and intriguing concept. A 'Babe Herder' can be imagined as someone who expertly navigates social landscapes, bringing together an attractive and charismatic group. Because of the term's versatility, it can refer to anything from a social maestro orchestrating events to a naturally magnetic individual adept at attracting attention. It adds an element of levity and creativity to conversations, making it a phrase that could be used in casual banter or light-hearted descriptions. 'Babe Herder' is both charming and enigmatic, leaving room for delightful speculation about the type of person or scenario it might describe.

    ReplyDelete
  23. "BlogMasters consistently produces high-quality content that delves deeper than the surface." Your blog is distinguished by its attention to detail and depth of analysis. It's clear that the staff is dedicated to providing valuable content to its readers. "Excellent work!"
    Check out

    ReplyDelete
  24. FashionWear a leading brand in the fashion industry, epitomizes elegance and style through its diverse range of clothing and accessories. With a keen eye for trends and a commitment to quality, FashionWear offers customers a seamless shopping experience both online and in-store. From chic dresses to sophisticated suits, each piece is meticulously crafted to showcase individuality and flair. Whether for a formal event or a casual outing, FashionWear caters to every fashion need, ensuring customers look and feel their best with every wear.

    ReplyDelete
  25. The Mandurah Airport Taxi Service offers efficient and reliable transportation solutions, ensuring prompt arrivals and comfortable rides to various destinations. With a fleet of well-maintained vehicles and experienced drivers, the Taxi Service strives to meet the diverse needs of passengers while prioritizing safety and convenience. Whether it's a quick trip across town or a longer journey, customers can rely on the Taxi Service for convenient and hassle-free transportation options.

    ReplyDelete

I love to hear from you! Send me your comments, but be sure you're not a "no reply" sender, so I can write you back!
XOXO,
Brooke